Brett Knight, 41, filed a lawsuit November 4 against American Express for unlawful termination, which claims he was fired for being HIV positive, reports The New York Post.

According to the article, problems began when he starting working for a new supervisor, Michael Slover, who learned of his sexual orientation and HIV status from a Family Medical Leave Act application.

The lawsuit claims Slover would only speak with Knight at a “safe distance” and that Slover would not shake hands with him, use objects he handled or enter his cubicle.

The company said the termination was a result of downsizing. Knight lost his job in July and is still out of work.

“It’s been the most horrific experience of my life,” he said.